Quote:
Originally Posted by shaffe
Granted the GT500 is still a unkown to this point. I don't understand why you are so sure Ford if they do build one, can't build one that is in the same ball park price wise as the ZL1. They know what the competition has out there, and if they bring something out thats out of the price range I think they know that would be a total failure unless it performs well above what the competition does.
|
Because if they could, it would already be out. Problem is, they are in a tricky situation. The last generation, the GT500 came out right on the heels of the 5th Gen ZL1, and with significantly more HP. A clear attempt to cast a shadow on Chevy's new (at the time) ZL1. But that was an easy thing to do. Why? Well, everybody knew the approx. HP of the impending ZL1 because Camaro always gets a motor from the 'vette. So, Ford has a major advantage in knowing what powerplant is going in the next model for their competitor. They then stacked the deck with a bigger blower and more HP. Nice move!
But this time around, there is a big problem - the Hellcat/Demon. Ford probably figured that the new ZL1 would have about 650HP by using the LT4 from the Z06 'vette. So, they figured if they just put out a bit more HP than the Hellcat's 707, they could market their car again, as the highest HP car in the segment, again casting a big shadow on the Camaro. But, then came the Demon. If they wanted to have the HP crown, they would have to get deep into the 800 HP range. If they want to go with a Hellcat beating HP number but not Demon beating number, it better be more nimble than the ZL1, which ain't going to happen on the current platform. Ford is stuck between a rock and a hard place (or a ZL1 and a Demon, if you will).
So, I think the GT500 was delayed to find a way to get more HP than the Demon and still meet the regulations. I believe they will do it, but it takes time. I am hoping for a twin turbo GT500. It would set them apart from the rest, and it can be marketed as an addition to the EcoBoost line. I was originally hoping they would TT the Voodoo, but that engine has too many issues for my taste. Hope they TT the Coyote, and dress it up nice, for not an outrageous amount.